A man in his 40s was arrested after entering a Manchester mosque with an offensive weapon while people were praying during the holy month of Ramadan.
At around 8.40pm on February 24, there were reports that two suspicious men had entered Manchester Central Mosque, on Upper Park Road, Victoria Park.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) attended the scene and arrested one of the men on suspicion of carrying an offensive weapon and possession of class B drugs.
Superintendent Simon Nasim of the City of Manchester Central district said that no one was harmed, and they are working hard to locate the second man.
He said: “You may notice an increased presence of patrols in the area while our inquiries continue. Please feel free to chat with our officers and let them know your concerns.
“There’s no place for weapons on our streets, and we are committed to ensure all our communities feel safe to worship in peace and go about their daily lives without fear.
“Anyone committing such offences will be dealt with in accordance with the law.”
Manchester Central Mosque said on Instagram that the volunteers played a crucial role in containing the situation and how they prevented it from becoming far more serious.
They added: “The Muslim community in the UK has experienced a notable rise in threats and hostility over recent years.
“The increase in Islamophobic incidents is a serious concern, and greater resources are urgently needed to address this growing and real risk.”
They will continue to work with the police and advise congregants remain vigilant, travel in groups where possible, and ensure that children are not left unattended.
Sir Keir Starmer later expressed concern about the incident on X, thanking volunteers and emergency services for their quick responses.
The Prime Minister said: “I know this will be worrying for Muslim communities, especially during Ramadan, a time of peace and reflection.
“We have provided up to £40 million funding for additional security at mosques, Muslim schools and community centres, and will continue to act to ensure communities are able to live without fear.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact GMP on 101 or via the LiveChat function on their website.
Alternatively, people can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.